Marijuana Could Be Used to Treat Epilepsy

Marijuana is often used to treat pain or alleviate nausea. But recent study found that marijuana could also help in treating epilepsy.

Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes individuals to have recurring seizures conditions. Seizures occur when groups of nerve cells in the brain sends the wrong signal. People with epilepsy may have strange sensations or strange behavior.

According to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Reading, UK, some compounds in cannabis leaves have been shown to be effective in relieving the seizures in epilepsy.

The two compounds of cannabis that have been identified include Cannabidiol (CBD) and GWP42006, which have been highly effective at preventing seizures in animals and the researchers now hope to begin clinical trials in humans within the next three years.

“There was a stigma associated with cannabis that came out from the 60s and 70s associated with recreational use, so people have tended not to look at it medical benefits,” said Dr Ben Whelley, drug researchers from the University of Reading.

The medical benefits of marijuana actually have studied in recent decades. Some studies have proved that marijuana is efficacious as a medicine, especially in treating Multiple Sclerosis and relieving pain in cancer patients.

Recent research conducted by Dr. Whalley and his team have been published in the scientific journal Seizure.